Is There a Cure for Male Pattern Hair Loss?

While science has made amazing strides in understanding male pattern baldness — the most common form of hair loss, accounting for more than 95% of hair loss in men — it still hasn’t gotten to the (ahem) root causes of how to cure the condition. What we’re saying is that there’s no magic potion out there that’ll result in tons of new hair growing in over that bald spot.

Luckily there are two FDA-approved hair loss treatments that’ve been clinically proven to stop hair loss in its tracks and even help with some new hair regrowth. That’s right, you can get some of that hair back.

Finasteride (generic Propecia): This is a prescription tablet that, when taken daily, blocks the production of DHT (a hormone that causes male pattern baldness) and has been proven to prevent the spread of receding hairlines and boost hair regrowth. Learn more about finasteride.

Minoxidil (generic Rogaine): This is a topical treatment that, when consistently applied twice a day to the scalp, helps maintain a fuller head of hair. It has been proven to be effective at slowing hair loss and promoting hair regrowth at the crown of your head. Learn more about minoxidil.

While these hair loss treatments aren’t the equivalent of getting a hair transplant, they are proven to work (unlike a lot of the snake oil that’s out there making crazy claims about what it can do… laser helmet anyone?). And if you’re curious if finasteride or minoxidil if right for you, the next best step is to set up a consultation with a licensed Keeps doctor today.

The information provided in this article is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. You should not rely upon the content provided in this article for specific medical advice. If you have any questions or concerns, please talk to your doctor.

Finasteride is an oral medication used to treat male pattern baldness in men only. It is not for use by women. When used by men, finasteride is generally safe but it can also cause serious side effects, including but not limited to allergic reactions, sexual dysfunction, and high-grade prostate cancer. Most patients find that problems with sexual function resolve when they stop taking the medicine. For full prescribing information, view the drug label information. For full prescribing information, view the drug label information.